The days of crossing the border with a Drivers License or birth certificate are about to end
WASHINGTON D.C. Just two years after many Texans travel plans to Mexico and other countries were saved by a delay in the passport requirement date the new passport requirement deadline is fast approaching. Lawmakers like U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady (R-Texas) are urging constituents to please plan accordingly.
As of June 1 the days of just using a birth certificate or photo I.D. to travel between the U.S. and Mexico Canada or the Caribbean are over.
Now that travelers to any foreign destination will be required to show a passport to return to the United States people who are making summer travel plans must start the passport process sooner rather than later" said Brady. If someone runs into problems you can contact my office and we will do our best to help cut through the red tape and get you on your way. But the later you start the more likely your travel plans will be disrupted."
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) affects air land and sea travel.
Air Travel: All persons traveling by air will be required to show a passport.
Land and Sea Travel: On June 1 2009 the rules will require those entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport passport card or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security.
A full list of Caribbean nations requiring passports can be found here.
Further information can be found on the State Departments Passport website of the WHTIs website.
